Cornelius Vincent McGreal, of Medford, formerly of Somerville, and Falmouth, passed away peacefully, on Wednesday, May 2nd at the Arnold House of Stoneham. He was 80.

Born in Somerville, he was the son of the late Martin and Margaret (O'Brien) McGreal. Cornelius attended local schools and graduated from Matignon High School with the Class of 1955, where he was placed in the Athletic Hall of Fame. He continued his education at Boston College, and graduated with his bachelor’s degree from Boston State. After college, Cornelius enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged on August 9, 1962. Following the service, Cornelius worked for the city of Somerville as an educator. He later earned his master’s degree from Boston University. Cornelius retired from education as the Principal of the Powderhouse Community School in 2003.

Cornelius was a kind person, devoted to his family and community. He lived his life in accordance with the Christian virtues of faith, hope and charity. Cornelius was always involved with charity work. Whether it be in helping with the community, spending time at local assisted living communities, organizing fundraisers and drives or coordinating large donations to help clothe the needy in other countries. There wasn’t anything that Cornelius wouldn’t do for others.

In his spare time, Cornelius enjoyed golfing and traveling with his wife. Together the two traveled the world. The only continent they didn’t visit was Antarctica. Cornelius was a handy man and loved working with his hands. He was an active parishioner at St. Joseph’s Church in Medford for many years, and then later with St. Raphael Church in West Medford. Cornelius was a former board member for the Somerville YMCA, member of the Somerville, Kiwanis, Falmouth Men’s Club, Massachusetts Principal’s Association, and the Pocasset Golf Club. Cornelius loved to be with people, care for his family and serve his community. He will be greatly missed by all the lives he touched.

Cornelius was the beloved husband of Elena (Jodice) McGreal, with whom he shared many loving years of marriage. He was the devoted father of Michele A. Harney and her husband Christopher of Winchester, Michael P. McGreal and his wife Michelle of Danvers. Cornelius was the loving grandfather of Maxine Harney of Winchester, and Michael P. McGreal Jr. of Danvers. He was preceded in death by his dear sister, Kathleen Rainville, and is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main Street, Medford, on Tuesday, May 8th from 9-11 AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Raphael Church, 512 High Street, Medford, at 11:30 AM. Services will conclude with interment and military honors at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Cornelius’ name may be sent to the Little Sisters of the Poor, 186 Highland Ave., Somerville, MA 02143.